Students Get Real-World Experience with Work-Based Learning

Whether it’s college, vocational school, or jumping straight into the workforce, the first few years after high school are typically spent exploring career options. But thanks to the Work-Based Learning Program at North Central High School (NCHS), Panthers are graduating with a leg up and years of real-world work experience already under their belt.

The Work-Based Learning Program at NCHS gives students the opportunity to explore different careers and gain hands-on experience while still in high school through internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and more. The positions available to students aren’t your typical high school part-time jobs; NCHS students are working in healthcare, IT support, business operations, and more.

“Our main goal is to help students leave North Central ready for what’s next in their lives,” said Shannon Fowler, Work-Based Learning Coordinator at North Central. “We’re focused on meaningful positions where they’re learning career-driving experiences.”

Thanks to our generous donors, the Foundation is able to provide ongoing funding for this crucial programming through the Annual Fund, Morrie and Jan Maurer Endowment to Further Promising Careers, and designated gifts. Beyond financial support, the Foundation also connects the program with North Central alumni eager to share their career experiences and advice.

One of the hallmarks of North Central’s Work-Based Learning Program is the Modern Apprenticeship Program, or MAP. MAP is a three-year program through EmployIndy that begins during a student’s junior year. While in MAP, students have the opportunity to explore in-demand career pathways while earning a paycheck and, in some instances, college credits or certifications.

“I decided to do MAP because I wanted to get more information about my field,” said Anari Robinson, a senior at NCHS and patient care technician at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital. “Since I want to be in nursing, I wanted to make sure this is what I wanted to do.”

And students aren’t the only ones benefitting from work-based learning. Employers are also feeling the impact.

“Employers say employability skills are the biggest hurdle for new employees, because they can teach you how to do the job, but they can’t teach those skills,” said Charlene Williams, Work-Based Learning Coordinator at North Central High School. “Our students are getting that experience.”